Orgasms

Want to know all about the big O? Got questions about the climax factor? We've got orgasms covered.

The sensation is different for everyone, every time

What is it?

Climax, coming, the big O - an orgasm is the peak of sexual pleasure. Sexual tension builds up when we get aroused (turned on), and the tension is released during an orgasm as the muscles in and around the vagina rhythmically contract for girls, while boys ejaculate sperm.

No two orgasms are exactly the same - they differ between people and from one time to the next. Plus there's loads of fun to be had without one - they're not essential for sexual satisfaction. So don't worry if you're not quite getting there - many women in particular struggle to reach climax. Boys find it easier to come through sex, while girls often need to have their clitoris stimulated in order to reach orgasm.

Many people experience their first (and then their best) orgasms through masturbation, which can help you understand how you like to be pleasured.

What does it feel like?

There is no definitive way to describe how an orgasm feels - the sensation is different for everyone, every time. But it will generally feel like a rush, an explosion, or a wave that will last a few seconds. Women also tend to get a flushed face or chest, increased breathing and swelling of the nipples, clitoris or labia.

Do girls ejaculate?

Most women find they suddenly get wetter during an orgasm.

A few even feel a gush of fluid from their vagina, possibly vaginal secretions that have built up and then get squeezed out by the muscular contractions of an orgasm.

Most women don't noticeably ejaculate in this way - though sex tends to be a messy, squelchy business for everyone.

What are multiple orgasms?

A multiple orgasm is when someone comes more than once in a short time. It can mean having one orgasm immediately after another, or after a quick break.

It's more common for girls to experience multiple orgasms than boys, as boys' bodies usually take longer to recover enough for a second orgasm.

BBC Advice factfiles are here to help young people with a broad range of issues. They're based on advice from medical professionals, government bodies, charities and other relevant groups. Follow the links for more advice from these organisations.